Is beadboard cheaper than shiplap?

Author: Rico McKenzie IV  |  Last update: Saturday, February 21, 2026

Cost. Shiplap tends to be more affordable than beadboard paneling. That being said, the end expenditure will depend largely on variables such as material quality and professional labor fees. Both beadboard and shiplap can be painted or stained according to your personal preference, which can add to the overall budget.

What is cheaper, shiplap or beadboard?

Shiplap costs an average of $1,000 to install, or between $2.50 and $7 per square foot. Beadboard and similar wood paneling costs around $1,325 on average, or about $7 to $20 per square foot.

Is there a cheaper alternative to shiplap?

There is a huge cost savings to use plywood strips to create a shiplap wall instead of true shiplap boards. Faux shiplap is easier, and way cheaper!

What are the pros and cons of beadboard?

Beadboard, characterized by vertically grooved panels, adds a traditional touch to interiors. Advantage: Easy installation and versatility make it suitable for various design styles. Disadvantage: Susceptible to moisture damage and challenging to clean the ridges effectively.

What is the new trend instead of shiplap?

Nickel gap boards are a great way to create a rustic look without the fuss of shiplap. They are similar to the previous shiplap look but now come in a broader range of colors, including flat whites that ignore the wood grain look for a cleaner, more modern feel. This option has narrow slots between each board.

Difference Between Shiplap and Beadboard

Is beadboard outdated?

Beadboard has a long history, but it's certainly not dated.

What is replacing shiplap 2025?

Refined, clean-lined designs are replacing shiplap walls, barn doors, and rustic accents. More vibrant and colorful spaces are replacing the gray-on-gray trend. Warmer tones like beige, taupe, and jewel tones are starting to emerge, moving away from the cool, monochromatic palettes that have dominated in recent years.

Should beadboard be nailed or glued?

Use wood glue on the lap-joint seams and apply either a wood glue or construction adhesive on the back of the beadboard panel. You don't need a lot of glue behind the beadboard panel. Nail each panel through the lap joint up high within the top 1 /2" so that nail will be covered by the top cap molding and down low.

How long does beadboard last?

For example, wood beadboard needs to be repainted every three to five years while acrylic paint on PVC beadboard can last upwards of 20 to 25 years; in addition, most cellular PVC trim comes manufactured in white, so it may not need to be painted at all depending on color preferences.

Do you paint beadboard with a brush or roller?

You can also use a 4" wide Micro Fiber Mini Roller to apply paint to the panels but you will want to go over the rolled section with the Rat Tail Brush to make sure the primer is spread evenly over the flats and valleys of the beadboard panel.

Why not to use shiplap?

Shiplap is Not Waterproof or Moisture Resistant

The wood planks are usually sealed with paint or stain, but this doesn't fully protect against water. If you need water-resistant material for an area prone to high humidity or dampness, consider using vinyl planks or other moisture-resistant shiplap.

Does Joanna Gaines like shiplap?

It's no secret that Chip and Joanna Gaines are fans of designing with shiplap, a rough-sawn pine paneling often used in barns and historic homes. Get shiplap ideas from some of the most spectacular ways the 'Fixer Upper' stars have used this versatile material.

Is shiplap a dying trend?

She says shiplap requests “have definitely cooled off” in the last year. “We've even had clients eliminate it at the last minute, worried it was too trendy,” Conte adds. Designers who participated in Apartment Therapy's 2024 design trend prediction survey agreed, saying this is the year to say goodbye to shiplap.

What looks like shiplap but is cheaper?

5 Alternative Materials for Shiplap Ceilings
  • Beadboard. Beadboard is a type of paneling made from narrow boards or panels with a series of evenly spaced, convex-shaped beads or grooves along one edge of each board. ...
  • PVC Panels. ...
  • Tongue and Groove Paneling. ...
  • Wood Look-Alike Panels. ...
  • Painted Plywood or MDF Panels.

Can you mix beadboard and shiplap?

Their compatibility allows for endless possibilities when creating a space that is both visually appealing and functional. Whether you're going for a rustic farmhouse vibe, a coastal retreat, or a transitional haven, the combination of shiplap and beadboard is sure to elevate your design choices.

What's another name for beadboard?

What Is Beadboard? Though it's often called wainscoting, beadboard is actually its own type of wall paneling. Wainscoting is a general term for wall paneling, while beadboard is a specific style that uses vertical panels.

Is beadboard out of style in 2024?

Wood is one of the hottest 2024 interior design trends, with natural wood tones, painted panels, accents and details playing a major role in creating beautiful, warm spaces. Painted wood accent walls, especially beadboard, are popular.

Do you put drywall behind beadboard?

The beadboard sheets can go directly over the drywall. To adhere the beadboard, use industrial adhesive and press it gently but firmly. Nail the beadboard at the top and bottom, hiding the nail in the grooves of the board. You may need to cut beadboard sheets with a jigsaw to fit around door frames and corners.

Why do people use beadboards?

Beadboard originated in England four centuries ago with the practical purpose of keeping heat inside the house and moisture from outside at bay. It is said that early English settlers brought the design to the U.S. to remind them of the history and architectural character of the homes they left behind.

What kind of saw to cut beadboard?

Then, I cut my beadboard to length for each stretch of wall. I used my table saw for this, but since beadboard is pretty thin and flimsy, I recommend having a helper or just using a circular saw.

Can beadboard go over studs?

Nail the Boards When Over a Stud

Wherever a board is over a stud, nail it in place. Hide the nail in the groove along the bead or drive it through the tongue, if possible.

Can you install beadboard directly to ceiling joists?

It's also possible to cover an old basement drop ceiling grid with beadboard planks using EASY UP clips. If you're starting from scratch, planks can be attached directly to the ceiling joists using the clips and screws in the carton.

What are people doing instead of shiplap?

Faux-brick paneling may be a great shiplap alternative for you. It is better for renters as it is easy to install (just peel and stick) and easy to take down without damaging the wall underneath.

What is the trend in shiplap in 2024?

Top Shiplap Trends for 2024

Deep blues, charcoal grays, and even black shiplap are becoming the go-to choices for adding depth and sophistication to living rooms, bedrooms, and even kitchens. These rich hues create a dramatic backdrop that makes other design elements pop, providing a bold yet cozy atmosphere.

What is the cheapest alternative to tongue and groove?

In terms of affordability, shiplap planks typically come out on top. Due to their construction and a more clean-cut installation, which affects labor costs, shiplap is relatively cheaper.

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